I80 Travel Troubles

Getting over the hill on Interstate 80 is a chore in the best of times. This summer, however, it's really bad. As anyone who has driven west on I80 lately can testify, the highway is a traveler's nightmare. The problem is several projects worth of construction, starting at the Nevada state line and going with little interruption all the way to Colfax, California, a distance of almost 75 miles. There are eight projects being worked between March and November each year from 2009 through 2013. So, between summer road work and winter snow storms, driving on I80 is going to be a chore for some time.

To its credit, the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) seems to be sincerely trying to mitigate the impacts to travelers and commerce. They've created an excellent website, GetAcross80.com, to help motorists navigate the detours and delays inherent in these extensive projects. The site has a calendar showing when delays are likely, traveler's information, details and news about the projects, a way to sign up for email alerts, and more. There are even links to Caltrans webcams so you can have a look see before hitting the road.

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